Last Updated: 18/02/2026
Teach Your Cat To Sit
Wondering how to teach your cat to sit? Check out our tips and tricks to make the process easier for everyone from our vet team.
Author: Dr Teagan Lever BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 1 minute - quick read
Yes it is possible! With a little patience and the right incentives (usually tasty treats!), most cats are capable of being taught to sit and perform other basic tricks. Spending some time training your feline friends is a great way to keep their mind active and spend some quality time together.
Step 1
Grab a treat and get your cat's attention. Hold it a few centimetres above his head and move it slowly towards his tail. This should encourage him to enter the seated position, as soon as this happens let him eat the treat. Using a clicker immediately as your cat sits will also help communicate to him that this is the exact behaviour you are after. For more information about clicker training, check out Clicker Training 101.
Step 2
Practice, practice, practice. Repeat step one until your cat is Sitting consistently when you bring out the treat, start to add the command 'sit' while you are luring your cat into the seated position. Make sure to keep your training sessions to no more than 10 minutes or so to keep your cat from getting bored or frustrated.
Once your cat has learned to sit, there are lots of other tricks you can try including high five, standing on the hind legs and even jumping through hoops. The sky is the limit!
Articles recommended for you
Our vet authored guide to the benefits of feeding your dog fresh food plus tips and advice for introducing it into their regular menu.
See our guide to protecting your pet from parasites from our vet team.
Thinking of getting a fish? Check out our guide for setting up a tank and home care tips!
Looking to understand horse feeds better? This comprehensive guide covers feeding recommendations for horses of all ages and disciplines.
Does your pet suffer from anxiety? Check out our Vet-guide for treatment options to help your pet.
History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Wed Feb 18 2026
Edited by Dr Angie Armstrong BVScDr Teagan Lever BVSc (Hons)
Head Veterinarian, BVSc (Hons)
Pet Circle's Head Veterinarian, Dr Teagan graduated from the University of Queensland in 2010 and went on to work in small animal and mixed practice in various locations around QLD & ACT before joining Pet Circle in early 2016. Dr Teagan has special interests in dermatology, nutrition and preventative health care. She feels privileged to witness the special bond people share with their pets on a daily basis and enjoys forming lasting relationships with pet parents and their fur children.
